Between the two Trumpeter models, which would be the better of the two to build, both in terms of quality of model and in terms of Historical significance ?
If you intend to build either kit as named ie. Hornet will be Hornet, Essex will be Essex, historically, I vote for the Hornet. A) Doolittle raid, B) Midway, C) Solomon Islands campaign. She was one of the ships which held the line. Essex and her sisters were the ones which took the fight to the enemy. The reviews of both kits has been favorable. Essex did serve well, but several sisters have better, ie saw more action than she did. You have a tough choice, both are important ships and both kits are above average.
I think the Hornet is the most interesting in history, however they are both great kits, and were great ships too.
It’s entirely up to you…both kits are equally done, although Essex is just a touch better in the accuracy department because of the Hornet bow issues.
Don’t forget to consider the Yorktown II kit as well, she’s mid-war Essex class that gives you more options on other ships in the class.
Jeff Herne
Modelwarships.com